Hawaii Cannabis Laws (2025)

Your comprehensive guide to medical marijuana, legalization status, and dispensaries in the Aloha State.

Current Legal Status

🟡 Mixed

Medical Cannabis

✅ Legal

Recreational Use

❌ Illegal

Home Growing

✅ Allowed

Where to Buy

Licensed Dispensaries

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Cannabis Laws in Hawaii

When Was It Legalized?

Medical cannabis was legalized in Hawaii in 2000 through the "Medical Use of Marijuana Act" (Act 228), making Hawaii the first state to legalize medical marijuana through legislative action rather than by ballot initiative. The dispensary program was established later in 2015 through Act 241.

Who Can Use Medical Marijuana in Hawaii?

Hawaii allows registered patients with the following qualifying conditions to use medical marijuana:

Recreational Use: Illegal with Decriminalization

Recreational cannabis use remains illegal in Hawaii, though the state has decriminalized possession of small amounts. In 2019, Hawaii passed a law (HB1383) that decriminalized possession of up to 3 grams of cannabis, making it punishable by a $130 fine rather than jail time.

Possession Limits

Medical Use: Registered patients may possess up to 4 ounces (113 grams) of usable cannabis at any given time.

Recreational: Possession of up to 3 grams is decriminalized with a $130 fine. Larger amounts remain illegal and can result in criminal charges.

Growing Laws

Registered medical marijuana patients and caregivers in Hawaii may cultivate up to 10 cannabis plants at their residence. All plants must be tagged with the patient's 329 registration number and expiration date.

📌 Read More: U.S. Cannabis Laws by State – Full Guide

How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Hawaii

MMJ Card Application Process

1

Check if you qualify

Confirm you have a qualifying condition such as severe pain, PTSD, cancer, or other conditions listed above.

2

Get a doctor's certification

Schedule an appointment with a qualified healthcare provider in Hawaii who can certify your condition.

3

Submit your application

Register with the Hawaii Department of Health's Medical Cannabis Program through their online portal and pay the $38.50 registration fee.

4

Receive your MMJ card

Once approved, you'll receive an electronic registration card that you can use to purchase from dispensaries across Hawaii.

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Where to Buy Cannabis in Hawaii 🏬

Oahu Dispensary and Provisions

Honolulu, Oahu | (808) 272-2631 | theoahudispensary.com

Gräs Waikiki: Cannabis Collective

2424 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | (808) 921-2152 | grascbd.com//

Hawaiian Ethos

Kailua-Kona, Big Island | (808) 339-3205 | hawaiianethos.com

Big Island Grown

Hilo, Waimea, Kona | (808) 333-3420 | bigislandgrown.com

Island Uplift

209 Kaʻiulani Ave Unit 9, Honolulu, HI 96815 | (808) 772-4042 | islanduplift.com

Aloha Green Apothecary

KHonolulu, HI 96814 | (808) 369-2888 | agapoth.com

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CBD & Hemp Laws in Hawaii

Is CBD legal in Hawaii? ✅ Yes

CBD derived from hemp (containing less than 0.3% THC) is legal in Hawaii, following the passage of the 2018 Federal Farm Bill and Hawaii's alignment with federal law through Act 14 (2020).

Can you buy CBD without a prescription? ✅ Yes

Hemp-derived CBD products can be purchased without a prescription from various retailers throughout Hawaii.

Where to Buy CBD in Hawaii

💡 Read Also: CBD vs. THC – What's the Difference?

Cannabis & Driving Laws in Hawaii 🚗

Can You Drive While High? ❌ Illegal

Driving under the influence of cannabis is strictly prohibited in Hawaii, even for medical marijuana patients.

THC Limits for Driving: Hawaii uses a "per se" DUID (Driving Under the Influence of Drugs) law. Any detectable amount of THC in your blood or urine can result in a DUI charge if the officer determines your driving is impaired.

DUI Penalties

First offense: Up to 5 days in jail, $150-$1,000 fine, license revocation for 1 year

Second offense: Up to 14-30 days in jail, $500-$1,500 fine, license revocation for 18 months to 2 years

Third offense: Up to 30 days in jail, $500-$2,500 fine, license revocation for 2 years

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel with cannabis in Hawaii?

You can travel with medical marijuana within Hawaii if you're a registered patient, but cannot transport between islands as federal law prohibits this. It is illegal to transport cannabis across state lines or internationally. TSA and federal authorities enforce federal law, which still classifies cannabis as illegal.

Can I buy cannabis edibles in Hawaii?

Yes, edibles are available at licensed dispensaries in Hawaii for registered medical marijuana patients. Recreational edibles are not legally available. The state limits edibles to 10mg THC per serving with a maximum of 100mg THC per package.

What happens if I get caught with cannabis in Hawaii?

Possession of up to 3 grams of cannabis has been decriminalized in Hawaii and is subject to a $130 fine. Possession of larger amounts can result in misdemeanor or felony charges depending on quantity. Medical marijuana patients are protected when possessing legal amounts.

Are there senior/veteran discounts for medical marijuana in Hawaii?

Yes, many dispensaries in Hawaii offer discounts for seniors and veterans. Discount programs typically range from 10-20% off purchases. Patients should contact specific dispensaries directly to inquire about their discount programs and eligibility requirements.